Explore Genoa
Built during the Roman Empire, Genoa - also know as Genova - was a powerful port city by birth. Based in the north-western of Italy in the region of Liguria, Genoa borders the Ligurian Sea. Due to Genoa’s rich maritime history and the intense war activity that took place in World War II, many deep wrecks lie in wait of technical and recreational divers to explore their depths in the Gulf of Genoa. Dive centres in Genoa also visit the Portofino Marine Reserve which is a characterised by a rocky seascape. Caves, walls, and even the statue of Christ can be explored at Portofino’s countless sites.
Scuba diving in Genoa takes place from several dive centres in the city while dive resorts are not common. Dive courses are available to all levels, from beginners courses to technical diving.
Top Genoa Dive Sites
1. The Haven Wreck
The Haven wreck is one of the largest in the Mediterranean, attracting a variety of marine life including groupers and barracudas. This site is suitable for advanced and technical divers, offering scuba diving challenges with depths reaching up to 40 meters. Its special features include the control room and engine room, making it a demanding dive.
2. Pelagosa Wreck
The Pelagosa wreck offers an exciting dive at 36 meters, where divers can explore the turret and large rudder. The site is home to various small fish and is accessible for advanced divers. It is primarily a scuba diving location, noted for its historical significance and intriguing underwater features.
3. Isuela, Portofino
Isuela is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, with small fish drawing large pelagics. The dive is classified as advanced due to its nutrient-rich currents. Suitable for both scuba and freediving enthusiasts, the site offers unique underwater experiences in the protected marine area of Portofino.
4. Grotta della Colombara
This dive involves exploration of three caves, hosting a variety of flora and fauna, including sponges and corals. Accessible to divers of all levels, it is a scuba diving site extending to 39 meters. Its special features include the expansive cave system located east of San Fruttuoso Cove.
5. The Dragon, Portofino
The Dragon offers diverse environments, rich with coral and gorgonians. Ideal for advanced scuba divers, the site features walls, suspended roofs, and intricate channels. It's part of the ecological marine park, providing a habitat for abundant marine life and offering breathtaking underwater landscapes.
